If you’re on the hunt for tasty things to pair with satay chicken, you’re in for a treat. The flavor profile of satay chicken is rich and savory, so it’s best complemented with fresh, crisp sides. Think of a refreshing cucumber salad or jasmine rice to balance the dish’s hearty notes. 

You could also consider crispy vegetable spring rolls for that satisfying crunch. And don’t forget about some fresh herbs. They can elevate the dish with a burst of flavor. A little cilantro or mint goes a long way.

Now, let’s dive into the many facets of this mouth-watering dish.

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Growing up, food was more than just sustenance; it was a gateway to culture and connection. Every bite told a story. Satay chicken with peanut dipping sauce is one of those dishes that brings joy and comfort to the dinner table. 

Traditionally, it’s from Indonesia and has made its way into countless kitchens worldwide. The blend of spices along with the creamy, nutty sauce creates a festival of flavor. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, it’s a crowd-pleaser. It’s hard not to feel excited just thinking about it!

Recently, I wanted to recreate the satay experience at home. I found myself experimenting with different spices and techniques, and the result was simply irresistible. Join me as I walk you through the details of making this dish that’s full of flavor and history.

What is Satay Chicken with Peanut Dipping Sauce?

At its core, satay chicken consists of marinated pieces of chicken grilled on skewers, usually served with a peanut sauce for dipping. 

The marinade typically includes a mix of curry spices, sugar, and lime juice, which not only tenderizes the chicken but infuses it with a wealth of flavor. The peanut sauce is a delightful mix of peanut butter, spices, and a hint of sweetness, making it the perfect companion for the tender chicken.

This dish isn’t just food; it’s a culinary journey. You find influences from Malaysia, Thailand, and the broader Southeast Asian region. Dotted along street food stalls or served in elegant restaurants, satay chicken is nothing short of iconic.

What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Satay Chicken with Peanut Dipping Sauce?

Here’s the kicker: my version of satay chicken is all about balance. Many recipes focus heavily on the sauce or the chicken, but I’ve strived to create harmony. I use freshly grated ginger in the marinade, adding warmth without overwhelming the palate. The sauce combines natural peanut butter with red curry paste, giving not just richness but also a slight kick.

Another twist? I prefer using chicken thighs over breasts. Thighs are juicier, which makes a significant difference when grilling. They hold up better, ensuring that each bite remains moist and flavorful. So, this is not just another recipe. It’s a thoughtful take on a timeless classic.

How Does It Taste Like?

Picture this: Each bite of satay chicken is succulent, with a slight char from the grill. The marinade gives off hints of curry and lime, creating a delightful experience. Then, as you dip it in the peanut sauce, the rich, nutty flavor envelops the chicken, feeling both indulgent and refreshing at once. 

You get notes of sweetness from the peanut butter, balanced by the tangy soy sauce and just a whisper of heat from the red curry paste. The play of flavors is as intricate as the finest melody—each ingredient plays its part.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish:

Here’s what you’ll gather for your culinary adventure:

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 600 g / 1.2 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, diced into 2 cm chunks
  
• 1 tablespoon mild curry spice blend
  
• 1 teaspoon white sugar
  
• 2 teaspoons red curry paste
  
• 1 teaspoon fine cooking salt
  
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  

For the Peanut Dipping Sauce:

• 3/4 cup smooth, natural peanut butter
  
• 2 tablespoons red curry paste
  
• 1/4 cup granulated white sugar
  
• 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce
  
• 1 teaspoon kosher or cooking salt
  
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  
• 3/4 cup water
  
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  

For Serving:

• 2 tablespoons finely chopped peanuts
  
• Fresh lime wedges (optional)
  
• Thinly sliced red chili (optional)
  

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining the diced chicken with the marinade ingredients in a bowl. The mix of curry blend, sugar, and lime juice will create a beautiful flavor base. Make sure each piece of chicken is well-coated. Cover it and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will enhance the flavors significantly.

Step 2: Prepare the Peanut Dipping Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the peanut butter, red curry paste, sugar, soy sauce, salt, apple cider vinegar, and water. Stir well until combined, bringing it to a gentle boil. 

Simmer for a few minutes until thickened. Don’t forget to add the grated ginger for that extra kick. Once you get the desired consistency, set it aside. You can adjust the thickness by adding a bit of water if necessary.

Step 3: Skewer the Chicken

Take small bamboo skewers (about 16 cm in length), and thread the marinated chicken chunks on them. Leave a little space between pieces to ensure even cooking. Sometimes I like to add pieces of bell pepper or onion on the skewers too, but that’s optional.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 4–5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice char marks. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be captivating. Give yourself a pat on the back, because this is where the magic happens.

Step 5: Serve

Carefully remove the skewers from the grill. Place them on a serving platter and drizzle with the peanut dipping sauce. Sprinkle the chopped peanuts on top and add lime wedges and sliced chilies if you like some heat. Serve immediately, and watch as your friends and family delight in the flavors.

Tips & Tricks On Making Satay Chicken with Peanut Dipping Sauce

Here are some nuggets of wisdom that will take your satay chicken to the next level:

• Soak your skewers: If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling. This keeps them from burning.
  
• Don’t rush the marination: Allowing the chicken to marinate for longer enhances flavor. If time permits, try leaving it overnight in the fridge.
  
• Mix it up with different proteins: You can use this recipe for pork or shrimp. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
  
• Add some crunch: Top your peanut sauce with crushed peanuts for texture. It elevates not just the flavor but also the presentation.
  
• Customize your dipping sauce: The dipping sauce is versatile. Adjust sweetness or spiciness levels according to your preference.
  

Nutrition Information

For a 100-gram serving of satay chicken with peanut sauce, you can expect:

• Calories: Approximately 250
  
• Protein: 18g
  
• Fat: 16g
  
• Carbohydrates: 8g
  
• Fiber: 1g
  
• Sodium: 350mg
  

These values may vary based on the specific ingredients used, but this should give a general sense of healthfulness.

How Do I Store This Dish?

To keep your leftover satay chicken and peanut sauce fresh, store them in airtight containers. The chicken can last about 3 days in the refrigerator, while the peanut sauce can remain good for up to a week. Reheat on the stove for the best flavor and texture, giving it a good stir.

What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Satay Chicken with Peanut Dipping Sauce?

Here are five substitutes that can still give you a delicious outcome:

• Tofu instead of Chicken: For a plant-based twist, firm tofu can be marinated and grilled. It absorbs flavors well and provides a satisfying experience.
  
• Shrimp for a seafood take: Shrimp cook quickly and provide a light flavor that pairs perfectly with the peanut sauce.
  
• Beef for richness: Thinly sliced beef can work as an alternative. Just adjust cooking times since beef often requires a little more attention.
  
• Almond Butter in the sauce: If you can’t get peanut butter, almond butter offers a similar richness while adding a different flavor.
  
• Coconut milk in the marinade: Swap out some of the water in the dipping sauce for coconut milk for a creamier, tropical flavor.
  

Sheila Browder

Satay Chicken with Peanut Dipping Sauce

If you’re on the hunt for tasty things to pair with satay chicken, you’re in for a treat. The flavor profile of satay chicken is rich and savory, so it’s best complemented with fresh, crisp sides. Think of a refreshing cucumber salad or jasmine rice to balance the dish's hearty notes.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 15

Course: Sauce

Cuisine: Thai

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 600 g / 1.2 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, diced into 2 cm chunks
• 1 tablespoon mild curry spice blend
• 1 teaspoon white sugar
• 2 teaspoons red curry paste
• 1 teaspoon fine cooking salt
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

For the Peanut Dipping Sauce:

• 3/4 cup smooth natural peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons red curry paste
• 1/4 cup granulated white sugar
• 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon kosher or cooking salt
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 3/4 cup water
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

For Serving:

• 2 tablespoons finely chopped peanuts
• Fresh lime wedges optional
• Thinly sliced red chili optional

Equipment

• Bowl, Grill

Method

 

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Start by combining the diced chicken with the marinade ingredients in a bowl. The mix of curry blend, sugar, and lime juice will create a beautiful flavor base. Make sure each piece of chicken is well-coated. Cover it and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will enhance the flavors significantly.

Step 2: Prepare the Peanut Dipping Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the peanut butter, red curry paste, sugar, soy sauce, salt, apple cider vinegar, and water. Stir well until combined, bringing it to a gentle boil.
2. Simmer for a few minutes until thickened. Don’t forget to add the grated ginger for that extra kick. Once you get the desired consistency, set it aside. You can adjust the thickness by adding a bit of water if necessary.

Step 3: Skewer the Chicken

1. Take small bamboo skewers (about 16 cm in length), and thread the marinated chicken chunks on them. Leave a little space between pieces to ensure even cooking. Sometimes I like to add pieces of bell pepper or onion on the skewers too, but that’s optional.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 4–5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice char marks. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be captivating. Give yourself a pat on the back, because this is where the magic happens.

Step 5: Serve

1. Carefully remove the skewers from the grill. Place them on a serving platter and drizzle with the peanut dipping sauce. Sprinkle the chopped peanuts on top and add lime wedges and sliced chilies if you like some heat. Serve immediately, and watch as your friends and family delight in the flavors.

Nutrition

Calories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 18gFat: 16gSodium: 350mgFiber: 1g

Notes

Here are some nuggets of wisdom that will take your satay chicken to the next level:

• Soak your skewers: If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling. This keeps them from burning.
• Don’t rush the marination: Allowing the chicken to marinate for longer enhances flavor. If time permits, try leaving it overnight in the fridge.
• Mix it up with different proteins: You can use this recipe for pork or shrimp. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
• Add some crunch: Top your peanut sauce with crushed peanuts for texture. It elevates not just the flavor but also the presentation.
  
• Customize your dipping sauce: The dipping sauce is versatile. Adjust sweetness or spiciness levels according to your preference.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Satay chicken with peanut dipping sauce is more than just a meal. It’s an experience that brings together flavors, textures, and a bit of fun. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, enjoying a night in, or simply looking to impress your family, this dish ticks all the boxes. With its balance of spicy, sweet, and savory, there’s simply no reason it shouldn’t be a staple in your repertoire.

So, fire up those grills and gather your friends. Dive into the rich deliciousness of homemade satay chicken, and don’t forget to have fun along the way! After all, cooking is not just about following instructions; it’s about sharing love and creativity. Enjoy every bite!

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